from παραβάλλω; a similitude ("parable"), i.e. (symbolic) fictitious narrative (of common life conveying a moral), apothegm or adage:--comparison, figure, parable, proverb.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **parabolḗ**, represented by `{{G3850}}`, is a term for a similitude or comparison. It appears **50 times** across **48 unique verses**. Derived from `{{G3846}}` `parabállō`, which means "to compare," its core function is to lay a familiar concept alongside a spiritual truth. It is translated as **parable**, **proverb**, **figure**, or **comparison**, and often takes the form of a symbolic narrative from common life used to convey a moral or spiritual lesson.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G3850}}` is the primary method Jesus uses for public teaching. He often begins by saying "he spake a **parable** unto them" [[Luke 18:1]]. These narratives were used to illustrate the nature of the "kingdom of heaven" [[Matthew 13:24]] or to challenge the audience's assumptions [[Luke 18:9]]. However, parables also served to conceal truth from those not meant to understand, fulfilling the prophecy to "open my mouth in **parables**" [[Matthew 13:35]]. Jesus states this purpose directly, explaining that to his disciples it is given to know the mysteries, but to others he speaks in **parables** so that "hearing they might not understand" [[Luke 8:10]]. The term is also used in a broader sense, such as for a short saying or **proverb** like "Physician, heal thyself" [[Luke 4:23]], or as a symbolic **figure** in the epistles ([[Hebrews 9:9]], [[Hebrews 11:19]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the function and reception of a `{{G3850}}` **parable**:
* `{{G3666}}` **homoióō** (to liken): This verb is frequently used to introduce a parable, stating that the kingdom of heaven "is **likened** unto a man" [[Matthew 13:24]].
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō** (to hear): The initial, physical act of receiving a parable. Jesus emphasizes that true reception goes beyond just hearing, contrasting those who **hear** but do not understand [[Matthew 13:13]].
* `{{G4920}}` **syníēmi** (to understand): This represents the deeper comprehension that a parable is meant to produce. The goal is to move from merely hearing to being able to **understand** the message [[Matthew 13:23]].
* `{{G5419}}` **phrázō** (to declare): When the meaning of a parable was not clear, the disciples would ask Jesus to **declare** it to them, showing that interpretation was often necessary [[Matthew 15:15]].
* `{{G3466}}` **mystḗrion** (mystery): Parables are the vehicle for communicating the **mysteries** of the kingdom of God to those who are given the ability to know them [[Mark 4:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3850}}` is significant, as it defines Jesus's primary teaching style and its intended effect.
* **Selective Revelation:** Parables function as a divine filter. They reveal the **mysteries** `{{G3466}}` of God's kingdom to the sincere seeker while veiling the same truths from those with hardened hearts [[Luke 8:10]].
* **A Call for Spiritual Engagement:** The use of parables requires an active listener. One must move beyond simple hearing `{{G191}}` to seek understanding `{{G4920}}`, as the disciples did when they asked Jesus to explain his teachings privately ([[Mark 4:34]], [[Matthew 13:36]]).
* **Fulfillment of Prophecy:** Jesus’s use of parables is explicitly identified as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, indicating that this teaching method was part of God's predetermined plan to utter things kept secret from the foundation of the world [[Matthew 13:35]].
* **Illustration of the Kingdom:** The very nature of the kingdom of God is conveyed through these comparisons. Concepts like its growth, value, and judgment are made tangible through parables like the mustard seed [[Matthew 13:31]] and the sower [[Matthew 13:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3850}}` **parabolḗ** is far more than a simple story. It is a sophisticated, Spirit-guided communication tool. As a comparison, figure, or proverb, it serves the dual purpose of revealing truth to the receptive and concealing it from the resistant. Through parables, Jesus called his followers to **learn** `{{G3129}}` and **understand** `{{G4920}}` the deep **mysteries** of the kingdom of God, making it a cornerstone of his earthly ministry.
TRV